What does unwomanly mean?
“Unwomanly” is an adjective meaning unlike a woman, especially unlike the qualities or behavior traditionally regarded as feminine. It may describe a demeanor, style, action, or quality as lacking characteristics associated with women under conventional social standards. The word does not mean that someone is not a woman, nor does it simply mean “not female”; its force comes from judging something against an established gender stereotype. Historically, “unwomanly” often carried a negative or disapproving connotation, particularly when applied to a woman's behavior or appearance. In contemporary use, it can sound dated, and speakers may prefer more precise alternatives such as “unfeminine” or “masculine,” depending on the intended sense. The term is also best used cautiously, since treating particular traits as inherently masculine or feminine can reinforce restrictive gender assumptions.
adjectiveNot characteristic of, or regarded as appropriate to, a woman; lacking qualities traditionally associated with femininity.
- Not characteristic of or appropriate to a woman, especially according to traditional ideas of feminine behavior or appearance.
"Her firm, practical manner seemed unwomanly to some of her colleagues."
"The novel portrays the heroine's stern demeanor as unwomanly by the standards of her community."
"Some viewers considered the athlete's traditionally masculine style of dress unwomanly."
“Unwomanly” does not mean that someone is not a woman; it describes qualities judged by traditional ideas of femininity.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does unwomanly come from?
“Unwomanly” was formed in English by combining the prefix “un-” with “womanly,” an adjective derived from “woman” and the suffix “-ly.” The construction reverses the sense of “womanly,” producing a term for something considered unlike or inappropriate to a woman. Related English forms include “womanhood,” “womanish,” and “womankind,” all built on the same base word.
Related word forms
How unwomanly is actually used
This adjective is relatively uncommon and often sounds old-fashioned or judgmental. Because it relies on traditional assumptions about femininity, its use can be sexist or unnecessarily restrictive, especially when describing a person's appearance, behavior, or personality.